From internationally recognised film screenings in Crystal Palace to free outdoor performances in Greenwich, grassroots music in Orpington and family-friendly events on Blackheath, there’s something for everyone when it comes to festivals this year.
We’ve rounded up some of the biggest festivals taking place across the area in 2026 and everything you need to know.
Crystal Palace International Film Festival (CPIFF)
Where?
Everyman Crystal Palace (Bromley) and West Norwood Picturehouse (Lambeth)
When?
Thursday, February 26 – Saturday, March 21, 2026
How much?
Ticket prices to be announced
Founded in 2009, Crystal Palace International Film Festival is ranked among the top film festivals in the world on FilmFreeway and is widely praised by filmmakers for consistently selling out its screenings.
The festival showcases a well-curated programme of independent cinema from across the globe, including short films, documentaries, animation, comedy, horror and feature-length films.
Each screening is a one-off event, often accompanied by Q&As with the filmmakers.
CPIFF is also known for its lively Awards & Comedy Night, which has previously featured some of the UK’s best-known comedians, including Johnny Vegas, Kerry Godliman and Mark Steel.
Peckham Fringe
Where?
Theatre Peckham and Canada Water Theatre
When?
Saturday, May 2 – Friday, June 5, 2026
How much?
Standard £15, Concession £12.50, Peckham locals £7.50
Now in its fifth year, Peckham Fringe will be returning for 2026 alongside Theatre Peckham’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
The community-curated festival champions local and emerging voices, with a programme spanning theatre, comedy, dance, cabaret, spoken word, musicals and children’s shows.
Previous Peckham Fringe productions have gone on to major success, transferring to venues such as the Royal Court, Soho Theatre and Greenwich Theatre.
The full line-up will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, when tickets will also go on sale.
Free From Festival, Woolwich Works
Where?
Woolwich Works, Fireworks Factory, SE18
When?
Saturday, May 23 – Sunday, May 24, 2026
How much?
£17 standard, children under 12 free with an adult
Known as the UK’s only gluten and dairy-free food festival, Free From Festival will be making a comeback to Woolwich Works for a weekend of eating.
All food on offer is gluten and dairy-free, with additional refined sugar-free and “free from” options available.
Visitors can sample products from specialist brands and attend talks and demos from experts to help them expand their knowledge and cooking skills.
The event is suitable for all ages, with free entry for children under 12.
Brockley Max
Where?
Multiple venues across Brockley, Ladywell, Crofton Park and Honor Oak
When?
Friday, May 29 – Saturday, June 6, 2026
How much?
Many events free
Marking its 25th anniversary this year, Brockley Max is a community arts festival featuring over 80 events over the course of nine days.
Events take place in local pubs, cafes, parks, community spaces and homes, with everything from live music and poetry readings to art installations, talks, film nights and children’s activities.
Highlights traditionally include the Opening Night street party by Brockley station and the family-friendly “Max in the Park” finale in Hilly Fields.
St George’s Festival for Beckenham
Where?
Various venues across Beckenham
When?
Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 28, 2026
How much?
Ticket details TBA
The St George’s Festival is returning with a ten-day programme celebrating music across genres and generations.
Previous years have featured jazz, classical, folk and choral performances, with artists such as Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri, The Manfreds and The King’s Singers.
The 2026 line-up and warm-up events will be announced later this year.
Britpop Elite Festival, Woolwich Works
Where?
Fireworks Factory, Woolwich Works
When?
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 6.30pm–10.30pm
How much?
From £16.50 early bird
Fans of 90s music can relive the height of Britpop at this indoor tribute festival.
The event features tribute acts to Oasis, Blur and Pulp, with performances from Oasiz, Blur2 and Pulp’d.
Priory Live, Orpington
Where?
Orpington Priory Gardens
When?
Saturday, July 18, 2026
How much?
From £23.54 early bird, VIP tickets available
Returning for 2026, Priory Live is London’s grassroots music festival that focuses entirely on live original music.
Past line-ups have included Stereo MCs, Scouting for Girls, Dodgy and Toploader, alongside emerging artists from London and Kent.
A full line-up of acts will be announced later this year.
Blackheath Live: KISSTORY & Uptown Festival
Where?
Blackheath Common, Dartmouth Field
When?
Saturday, July 25 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
How much?
From £42 for KISSTORY; Uptown ticket prices TBA
Two major music festivals return to Blackheath in 2026.
Saturday sees KISSTORY on Blackheath, an over-18s event celebrating old-school anthems with DJs and live performances across multiple stages.
Sunday’s Uptown Festival offers a more family-friendly experience, with legendary acts, kids’ entertainment, street food and activities.
Labyrinth On The Thames
Where?
Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
When?
Dates TBA (expected August 2026)
How much?
Ticket details TBA
After a 2025 debut, Labyrinth On The Thames will return in 2026 for eight licensed events at the Old Royal Naval College.
Set against the River Thames, the festival combines electronic and live music with large-scale production in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Organisers have confirmed a more diverse line-up for 2026, including a “legendary English artist”.
Park Rock, Bexleyheath
Where?
Danson Park, Bexleyheath
When?
Saturday, August 8, 2026
How much?
Adults from £28, children from £11.20
Park Rock returns with a full day of rock and pop anthems, featuring tribute acts to Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, The Who, The Prodigy and more.
New for 2026 are themed shows including Rock Anthems and Boy Bands vs Girl Bands.
Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF)
Where?
Various outdoor locations across Greenwich and Docklands
When?
Dates TBA (late August–early September)
How much?
Free
GDIF is London’s leading free outdoor arts festival, bringing theatre, dance, circus and large-scale spectacle into public spaces.
The festival forms part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals and regularly attracts thousands of visitors with accessible performances designed for all ages.
